Gin Kings, Bolts square off in PBA's 36th season opener

The Philippine Basketball Association opens its 36th season on October 3 with a certified blockbuster pitting crowd favorite Barangay Ginebra Kings against rookie team Meralco Bolts.

The lone encounter is scheduled at 6 p.m. at the Araneta Coliseum following the 4:15 p.m. opening ceremonies.

Defending All-Philippine Cup champion B-Meg Derby Ace makes its debut on Oct. 6 against Talk N’ Text, which made key player trades during the off season.

The Llamados-Tropang Texters game comes off at 7:30 p.m. after the 5 p.m. match between Rain or Shine and Powerade (formerly Coca-Cola) – two teams that are expected to make some noise in the league’s first conference.

Defending Fiesta Cup titlist Alaska takes its turn on Oct. 8 when it battles Barako Bull at 5 p.m. On that same day, San Miguel Beer also opens its campaign against new-look Air21, powered by top two rookie picks Noy Baclao and Rabeh Al-Hussaini.

“We have a lot of fresh talents coming in this season and a new team in Meralco. So I am very sure the games will be very thrilling and exciting," said league commissioner Chito Salud.

The league’s first road game has been scheduled on Oct. 9 pitting Powerade against Barangay Ginebra in Batangas City.